OT Staff
The sanctuary is named after the Chandra Prabha River, whose name translates to “luminescence of the moon.” Legend has it that the river emerged from Lord Shiva's tears.
Visitors can spot black ducks, chital, sambar deer, nilgai, wild boar, porcupines, Indian gazelles, gharials and pythons. Keep your eyes peeled for the Asiatic lion, a species that was introduced from Gir National Park.
Grab your hiking stick and take to the lush forest trails on foot. The rugged terrain, with its abrupt descents, steep ascents and meandering river streams, poses a formidable test even for seasoned hikers.
Scenic waterfalls like Rajdari, Devdari and Naugarh attract tourists every year to the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary.
With over 150 species of birds fluttering between the branches, the sanctuary is home to black drongos, Asian green bee-eater, grey francolins and greater coucals, among others.
There are many ancient caves that dot the landscape of the sanctuary, with prehistoric cave paintings etched onto the rock walls that depict people’s daily lives and rituals.
Here are two places you should visit once you’ve had your fill of the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary.
Located 57km from the sanctuary, the impregnable Chunar Fort stands on a rock at an elevation of 85m above sea level. It is said to have been built in the 11th century.
Located 92km from the sanctuary, Mirzapur is known for its carpets and brassware industries, as well as the tradition of kajari and birha music.
The Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 70km from Varanasi, and you can reach it by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from the city.